Arsenal have confirmed that forward Beth Mead is expected to return before the end of the season after injuring her medial collateral ligament in the 3-2 victory over Liverpool last Thursday.
Mead was replaced after a collision with Liverpool’s Jade Bailey and was carried off the pitch in tears. In a statement on the club’s official website, Arsenal confirmed, “Beth Mead sustained a knee injury during our Women’s Super League fixture against Liverpool and scans have since confirmed that she’s injured her MCL ligament.
“She has already started her rehabilitation with the club and is expected to be back and available for selection later in the season.” Phil Neville had confirmed in his Tuesday press conference that he hoped Mead would be available for England’s April friendlies.
The injury represents a blow for Arsenal who are already missing Katrine Veje, Danielle Carter, Kim Little and Lia Wälti due to injury. New signing Caitlin Foord is now available and will likely play in Mead’s place.
Ready to fight for The Arsenal ✊@CaitlinFoord ?? pic.twitter.com/ihxusUrqLD
— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) February 20, 2020
Although not great news we should be thankful that it is the MCL and not the ACL so recovery is counted in weeks and not months but it is another kick in the teeth nonetheless and more evidence that referees need to be tougher on rash challenges that often go unpunished.
Hoping for a speedy recovery, Beth, Arsenal and England need you back ASAP.
Agreed. Still at least the ref did show Liverpool’s Robe a card. Beth was fortunate that it is not ACL although previous assaults by Hemp & Stanway in the Citeh games could have had even worse consequences. Get well soon Beth.
Maybe a glimmer of hope in Kat Veje’s recent SM post indicating “back soon”.
Together with Caitlin Foord’s integration into the squad that could be a boost before the Conti Cup final.
Looking forward to that.
Maier to Veje, Roord to Foord… GOAL!!!!!!
Who can we sign that rhymes with Zinsberger?
Thanks for the update